Artificial Intelligence, Digital Imaging and Robotics Technologies for Surgical Vitreoretinal Diseases

OBJECTIVE:To review recent technological advancement in imaging, surgical visualization, robotics technology and the use of artificial intelligence in surgical vitreoretinal (VR) diseases. BACKGROUND:Technological advancements in imaging enhance both pre-operative and intra-operative management of surgical VR diseases. Widefield imaging in fundal photography and optical coherence tomography (OCT) can improve assessment of peripheral retinal disorders like retinal detachments, degeneration, and tumors. OCT angiography provides a rapid and non-invasive imaging of the retinal and choroidal vasculature. Surgical visualization has also improved with intraoperative OCT providing a detailed real-time assessment of retinal layers to guide surgical decisions. Heads-up display and head-mounted display utilize three-dimensional technology to provide surgeons with enhanced visual guidance and improved ergonomics during surgery. Intraocular robotics technology allows for greater surgical precision and is shown to be useful in retinal vein cannulation and subretinal drug delivery. In addition, deep learning techniques leverages on diverse data including widefield retinal photography and OCT for better predictive accuracy in classification, segmentation, and prognostication of many surgical VR diseases. CONCLUSION:This review article summarized the latest updates in these areas and highlights the importance of continuous innovation and improvement in technology within the field. These advancements have the potential to reshape management of surgical VR diseases in the very near future and to ultimately improve patient care.